Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Jammu & Kashmir is on a transformative journey toward growth and prosperity, highlighted Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha during his address on the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day. The speech outlined significant strides in governance, economic development, infrastructure, and social welfare to create a progressive and inclusive Union Territory.
Governance Reforms and Public Services
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the importance of transparent and citizen-centric governance. J&K has launched over 1,100 online public services via the e-Unnat portal and integrated 104 government services with DigiLocker for document security. Platforms like JK SAMADHAN and Raabta are expediting grievance redressal, processing 300 public grievances daily.
Economic Growth and Industrial Development
J&K has achieved a remarkable 9.5% economic growth rate, with its GSDP projected at ₹2.45 lakh crore for 2023-24. Industrial policies, such as the J&K Startup Policy 2024-27 and incentives for MSMEs, aim to attract investment and create jobs. Over 889 industrial units are under development, with 324 expected to start production this year.
Massive Infrastructure Push
Connectivity projects are a key focus, with work underway on the Zojila Tunnel, Jammu-Srinagar Ring Roads, and the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway. The region is nearing completion of rail connectivity with the rest of India, marking a new era of economic integration. Hydropower initiatives will add over 3,000 MW of capacity by 2027, with projects like Pakal Dul and Ratle advancing.
Social Welfare and Empowerment
Key programs like the Holistic Agriculture Development Program are boosting farmers’ income, while Mission YUVA is driving youth and women’s entrepreneurial excellence. Women empowerment hubs and self-employment schemes are transforming lives, with plans to create over 1.37 lakh enterprises and 4.25 lakh jobs in five years.
Tourism and Cultural Revival
Jammu & Kashmir recorded a historic 2.36 crore tourist visits in 2024, with initiatives like the Kashmir Marathon and winter sports driving tourism. Srinagar’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City in Crafts and Folk Arts highlights efforts to preserve cultural heritage.
Health and Education Advancements
Healthcare infrastructure is expanding with AIIMS Jammu operational and AIIMS Kashmir nearing completion. Seven medical colleges and two cancer hospitals have been established. In education, smart classrooms, tinkering labs, and operationalization of IIT and IIM Jammu underscore a focus on innovation and skill development.
Environment and Sustainability
Programs like “Maa ke naam ek ped” have seen the planting of 1.5 crore saplings, and projects to rejuvenate water bodies like Wular Lake are underway. Green transport initiatives include the introduction of 200 e-buses and e-rickshaws.
Focus on Unity and Security
Shri Manoj Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating drug syndicates and co-terror networks, ensuring peace and security for future generations. Programs like Nasha Mukt Bharat are actively addressing the region’s drug challenges.
A Vision for a Brighter Future
The Lieutenant Governor concluded with a call for collective efforts to build a prosperous Jammu & Kashmir, emphasizing innovation, sustainable development, and citizen empowerment as pillars for a brighter tomorrow.
